Second passport demand grows as Canada opens new doors, i.e., as travel rules keep changing and global uncertainty continues, more people are looking for a second passport for long-term stability and peace of mind.
Public figures have also shown interest in dual citizenship. Actor George Clooney has obtained French citizenship, while comedian Rosie O’Donnell has pursued Irish citizenship. These examples reflect a growing global trend.
At the same time, Canada has introduced a major legal change that could allow many more people to qualify for a Canadian passport.
On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025) came into force. This law expands who can be recognized as a Canadian citizen by descent. It mainly helps people who were previously excluded under the first-generation limit (FGL).
Today, we will discuss:
- What the passing of Bill C-3 means
- How eligibility for Canadian citizenship can be checked
- How to apply for a Canadian passport (if eligible)
- Whether Canada allows dual citizenship
- The benefits of holding a Canadian passport
Who May Now Qualify For Canadian Citizenship By Descent?
Bill C-3 removes the first-generation limit for many people born or adopted outside Canada before December 15, 2025. These individuals would have been citizens if not for the old rule.
The first-generation limit was introduced in 2009. It restricted citizenship by descent to only one generation born outside Canada.
Under that rule, a child born abroad could receive Canadian citizenship only if a parent was born in Canada or became Canadian through naturalization. If the parent was also born abroad and had citizenship by descent, the child did not qualify.
Bill C-3 removes this restriction. As a result, many people known as “Lost Canadians” can now be recognized as citizens.
Anyone with a grandparent who was born in Canada or became a Canadian citizen through naturalization may now qualify. This applies even if both the person and their parents were born outside Canada.
Getting Proof Of Canadian Citizenship
People who believe they are Canadian citizens under Bill C-3 must apply for proof of citizenship through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Most applications are submitted online, though paper applications are available in limited cases. If the application is approved, IRCC issues a citizenship certificate.
This certificate allows the person to apply for a Canadian passport right away.
Applicants inside Canada may receive a passport in as little as 10 business days if they apply in person at a Service Canada location.
Canada’s Rules On Dual Citizenship
Canada allows dual and multiple citizenship. Becoming a Canadian citizen does not require giving up another nationality under Canadian law.
However, other countries may have different rules. Whether a person can keep their original citizenship depends on the laws of that country.
For example, China does not recognize dual citizenship. India also does not allow Indian citizenship alongside another nationality. Citizens of these countries may need to give up their original citizenship if they become Canadian.
The United States allows dual citizenship. Americans can become Canadian citizens without automatically losing U.S. citizenship.
All applicants should check the rules of their country of origin before applying for Canadian citizenship.
Advantages Of Holding A Canadian Passport
The Canadian passport is widely ranked among the strongest passports in the world.
According to the Henley Passport Index, the Canadian passport ranks higher than the U.S. passport. The U.S. passport has dropped out of the top 10 strongest passports in recent years.
The Canadian passport currently offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 181 countries. The U.S. passport provides access to 179 destinations.
Beyond travel benefits, Canadian citizens enjoy many rights. These include voting in elections, running for public office, and living, working, and studying in Canada without restrictions.
Canadian citizenship also offers long-term security, access to public services, and the ability to pass citizenship on to future generations under current laws.
As global interest in second citizenship grows, Canada’s Bill C-3 opens new doors for thousands of people worldwide. By expanding citizenship by descent, Canada has made its passport more accessible while recognizing families with long-standing ties to the country.
Immigtoronto, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at [email protected].
